Public Service Announcement: Epilepsy and Driving

People who suffer from uncontrolled seizures risk their lives and the lives of others if they choose to ignore driving restrictions set by their state or recommended by their doctor.

"People with epilepsy who are at risk of suffering a motor-vehicle accident include those whose seizures are associated with a loss of awareness and those who have been seizure-free for less than three to six months," says George Mandybur, MD, a neurosurgeon who sees patients with epilepsy at Mayfield Brain & Spine.
Unfortunately, up to 30 percent of patients with uncontrolled seizures continue to drive despite laws indicating that they should not drive.

"People who still suffer seizures, despite medication or even surgery, need to know that their lives are precious," Dr. Mandybur says. "Their loved ones, friends, and doctors want them to be safe. That means calling on family, friends, a transportation service, or public transportation to help you get where you need to go."

For information about driving laws and epilepsy in your state, please visit Epilepsy.com.